Signs of optimism for Patriots, Vince Wilfork?

ORLANDO — Vince Wilfork and the Patriots haven’t settled their differences regarding his contract. But the sides might be getting closer.

A day after owner Robert Kraft called Wilfork “one of my personal favorites” and said he hoped to come to a solution to ensure that Wilfork remains with the Patriots, Kraft reportedly began “re-recruiting” Wilfork, according to NFL Network.

The network reported two weeks ago that Wilfork had asked the Patriots for his release but coach Bill Belichick cast doubt on that Tuesday at the NFL owners meetings.

Belichick was asked what the next step is after Wilfork asking for his release.

“You need to talk to him about any of those statements,” Belichick said. “I think you should verify first.”